Malta Assumes Chair of OSCE Amidst Delicate Times
Malta has taken over the chairmanship of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) at a crucial moment. With 57 member states representing over a billion people from North America and Europe, the OSCE is the largest regional security organization. It tackles a wide range of security issues, from armed conflict and arms control to human rights and conflict prevention.
Foreign Minister Ian Borg, as the chair-in-office, has introduced the motto for Malta’s chairmanship: Strengthening Resilience, Enhancing Security. This motto reflects the pressing need to address the lack of resilience in the face of emerging security threats. As new challenges like terrorism, cyberattacks, and disinformation through advanced AI technologies arise, it is essential to build resilience to ensure security and stability.
One of the key challenges facing the OSCE is the war in Ukraine, which has highlighted the insecurity and instability that can arise from traditional armed conflict as well as new security challenges. While Russia’s direct role in creating this instability is evident, the OSCE must maintain a line of communication with Russia, despite the discomfort it may cause. However, the organization should not shy away from addressing the main issues and condemning Russian aggression.
Foreign Minister Borg, during his visit to Kyiv, emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and the urgent need for a complete withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory. He also advocated for the release of three illegally detained staff members of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission. The OSCE faces several challenges in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where Russia’s role is significant. Dialogue with Russia, though unpalatable, is becoming increasingly necessary to find solutions to conflicts and provide humanitarian assistance.
Malta’s chairmanship of the OSCE is particularly auspicious as the country also holds an elected seat on the UN Security Council. Minister Borg highlighted the opportunity to identify synergies between these multilateral institutions to promote peace and security. As a small state, Malta champions a multilateral approach, which is crucial in countering the prevailing unilateralism that has led to conflicts like the one in Ukraine. By advocating for more efficient instruments of multilateralism in both the OSCE and the UN, Malta can contribute to enhancing resilience and security.
However, to be effective, Malta must maintain consistency in its actions. While Minister Borg emphasized initiatives on media literacy and journalist safety, the Maltese government has not always followed through on these commitments. To be a credible actor, Malta must demonstrate its commitment to its stated principles consistently both at home and abroad.
In conclusion, Malta’s assumption of the OSCE chairmanship comes at a critical time. The country has the potential to make a positive contribution and act as a good interlocutor. By adhering to the motto of Strengthening Resilience, Enhancing Security, Malta can address emerging security threats and work towards greater stability and peace. As a small state championing multilateralism and advocating for efficiency in international institutions, Malta can play a crucial role in enhancing resilience and security in the OSCE region and beyond.
